Miele, who is price gouging Australians tens of thousands of dollars on their refrigerators, now has to defend claims the glass doors on their washing machines explode.

In Europe families are being warned certain Miele washing machines could explode sending shards of glass across kitchen floors. More than 50 incidents of appliances exploding are being investigated in Europe. In some cases glass doors are shattering, while other owners have reported the doors simply falling out of their housing.

Late last month Miele chose not to respond to claims they are deliberately price gouging Australian consumers.

In some cases Miele products are up to $8,000 more expensive for the same products in Australia than in the USA.

At Winnings Appliances in Sydney the 549L Miele Fridge K1801VI is selling for $14,999. US Appliances is selling the same Miele refrigerator for $6,095. SmartHouse has also identified several other Miele products that are up to 60% more expensive in Australia than both the USA and Europe.

A side by side price comparison between Winnings and US appliances

In Europe Which? Magazine, which is similar to the Australian magazine Choice, is warning consumers about the Miele washing machines.

Home product researcher at Which?, Adrian Porter, said: "Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the kitchen, it seems that some washing machine doors may be falling out or exploding, leaving kitchens covered in shards of glass."

One woman wrote on a comment forum in Europe "My Miele W3740 washing machine glass door suddenly exploded shedding shattered glass and water around the room. The machine cost Â£700 and is only 20 months old so still within guarantee."

Another forum writer said: "My Miele W1613 had been unused for a few days when a bang was heard. On inspection the inner glass door had exploded. Just to clarify: it was not in use at the time."

Mr Porter from Which? said: "This hasn't happened to any washing machines during our lab tests, so we have been unable to observe it in laboratory conditions and follow up with a proper analysis.

"But going through the accounts, there are theories ranging from hair cracks in the glass, or even that the glass is just thinner than it used to be. Still, nothing has been confirmed.

"It has also been suggested by a manufacturer that initial scratches on the glass could be caused by hard items like zip ends and belt buckles striking the door during the wash.

"We've contacted the manufacturers, and they're looking into the problem."